MEMORY
By Anna Bowman
"Everyday Magic" is a 30-minute essay film that delves into the rich tapestry of Kilburn's history from its pastoral origins in the 1830s, marked by fields and healing wells, to its vibrant and ever-evolving present. This narrative journey is anchored in the sensorial living experiences and spatial relationships that have defined Kilburn’s character and community spirit over two centuries.
The film weaves a story through books set in the area, iconic buildings like the Gaumont State Cinema, the former Kilburn branch library, and the historical Tin Tabernacle. It brings to life the area’s evolution through conversations and memories, exhibitions, and community events. These elements are vividly brought to life with historical materials sourced from Camden Local Studies and Archives Centre and the personal collections of residents, providing a sensory depth to the viewer’s understanding of space and time in Kilburn.
Local organizations such as Kilburn Library, Ben Uri Gallery, and the Kilburn Mosaic Project contribute to the narrative, alongside newer initiatives like Kilburn Festival, Kilburn State of Mind, and Light up Kilburn. The film also features contributions from a diverse group of individuals including artists, historians, and community leaders like Gayleen Gould and Ada Hao from Paprika Collective, who share their insights and personal stories.
"Everyday Magic" is not just a historical document; it is an invitation to experience Kilburn through a multisensory lens, appreciating its spaces not just as physical locations but as living canvases of communal memory and creativity. The film encourages viewers to perceive Kilburn’s public and private spaces as integral to the community's identity, fostering a deeper connection to the area’s cultural and social landscape. Through this cinematic exploration, Kilburn reveals itself as a place where history and modernity coalesce, crafting a unique urban narrative that resonates with all who engage with it.
Readers, performers and interviewees include:
Roush Anara, Camden Carers
Denise Arnold, NotJustCamden guide
Diana Binstead, West Hampstead Women’s Centre creative writing group
Lorena Garcia, Kilburn Festival (2013)
Kate Gleeson, Kilburn State of Mind
Gayleen Gould, artist, Light up Kilburn
Ada Hao, Paprika Collective
Alan Hovell, NotJustCamden guide
Mary East, Tin Tabernacle
Adam Farah-Saad, artist, Metroland Studios
Caren Owen K2K radio (TBC)
Brian O’Reilly, former Kilburn Librarian
Cleon Roberts, daughter of the late Sonny Roberts, Trojan, Planetone, Orbitone Records
Paul Schulte, Kilburn Neighbourhood Forum
Stevon, the Well Wisher and his song for Kilburn
Lynda Stuart, KOVE
Feyesa Wakjira, actor and KSOM choir
Josie Warshaw, Kilburn Oasis Project
.... (more tbc)